CAE ensures torch safety
To meet these requirements, the engineers first ran a computational fluid dynamics and combustion simulation to calculate the behaviour of the torch at temperatures between -5 ºC and +40 ºC as well as at wind speeds of up to 56 km/h and gusts of up to 80 km/h. Drop situations from heights of up to three metres were also simulated on the computer. Additional tests in the wind tunnel and real drop test trials with prototypes were also conducted to confirm the results from the computations. The development engineers also undertook analysis of material properties to identify suitable materials. In addition to this, they coordinated with the various partner firms to ensure a reliable series production.
In the end, the 800-gram torch, fitted out with a Bullfinch gas fuel burner for a butane/propane mix, met all of the requirements set. The flame could burn for up to 12 minutes at a height of between 250 and 400 mm. All of the TECOSIM engineers' hard work paid off, as the torch was the most reliable produced so far.
Symbolic torch run
On 27 July, the torch run reached its stunning finale in the Stratford Olympic Stadium. Seven young athletes lit 204 small petals: one for each participating nation. These were then joined into a single flame. In addition to the torch for the Olympic Games, TECOSIM also engineered the torch for the Paralympics and the supporting equipment for both relays, which included mini cauldrons, bus racks, bike and wheelchair adapters & the cradle for carrying the lantern on the aircraft from Greece to Great Britain.
"As a team we delivered Torch Relays, with associated icons that will stand the test of time and remain in people's hearts and minds. We are very grateful to TECOSIM for the constant support throughout the whole process," says Deborah Hale, Producer, Torch Relay at LOCOG.
Reception at Windsor Castle
"Even Queen Elizabeth II herself enquired about our work. Shortly before the opening ceremonies, we were invited to a reception for the Queen of England at Windsor Castle," touts Stuart Hawker, Managing Director at TECOSIM Technical Simulation Ltd., Great Britain. "We want to participate in more tenders for future Olympic games and other major sporting events."
TECOSIM in the healthcare sector at a glance
- Spectacular Olympic torch design transformed into a safe structure
- Computational fluid dynamics and burn simulation make Olympic torch safe
- None of the torch bearers were burnt or injured
- Participation in other tendering processes for major sport projects planned